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> Homepage > Homepage > Welcome > Destinations > Chetumal & the South > Mayan splendor >   Kohunlich
 The name kohunlich comes from two English words: ‘cohune’ (a palm tree native to Belize) and ‘ridge’ for, ‘cohune ridge’ or ‘the ridge where the cohune palm grows’. The site was first reported in 1912 by American archaeologist Raymond Merwin who dubbed it Clarksville. Kohunlich is surrounded by smaller sites that were each occupied for a few years. The area may have been inhabited throughout the entire Classic period, A.D. 250-900.
Kohunlich was excavated in the 60s by Víctor Segovia who concluded that the colossal stucco masks, carved moldings and recessed corners evident in the Temple of the Masks, which was built during its initial period of construction, linked it to the Petén region (Tikal). A second phase belonged to an architectural style dubbed Río Bec (the Acropolis’ substructure), and a third and final phase was characterized by indifferent construction and the use of perishable materials.
The masks of Kohunlich are the focus of attention and the reason for the site’s fame. They reflect the complexity of
ancient Maya society and are superb works of art. The masks recall Kinich
Ahau, the sun god, but weren’t intended as straight representations of the deity as originally thought. Scientists now believe the masks are actually portraits of the city’s rulers, men who chose to identify themselves with the god in order to legitimize their rule. The masks are framed with anthropomorphic figures associated with the jaguar god of the underworld.
The Palacio Norte or North Palace is a majestic structure, the one-time residence of a great lord or ruler. The Elevated Patio of the great foundation is itself built on an older building. This earlier structure is accessed via stairs that lead to a courtyard around which various rooms are located. Archaeological research indicates this, the Complex of the 27 Stairs, was used as housing for the nobility.
To reach Kohunlich head north out of Chetumal to the Escárcega-Campeche highway 186). Take this turn-off and head west, the exit for Kohunlich is at km 60 and well-marked. Once off the highway you’ll come to the community of Francisco Villa, and the ruins are about 9 km further (follow the signs).
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© 2004 Editorial Veras. La guía Oficial del Caribe Mexicano.